Brake System Inspection Costs
Basic Brake Inspection
Cost: $62.50 (30 minutes labor)
Includes visual inspection of brake pads, rotors, calipers, and brake fluid level check. This is recommended every 12,000 miles or annually.
Comprehensive Brake System Inspection
Cost: $125 (1 hour labor)
Includes basic inspection plus brake line examination, master cylinder testing, brake fluid quality testing, and electronic brake sensor check. Recommended every 24,000 miles.
Complete Brake System Diagnostic
Cost: $187.50 (1.5 hours labor)
Includes comprehensive inspection plus computerized ABS diagnostic testing, brake pressure testing, and thorough brake component measurement. Recommended when experiencing brake issues or unusual sounds.
Note: These prices reflect inspection costs only. Additional repairs or replacement parts, if needed, will be quoted separately after inspection.
Common Additional Services:
- Brake pad replacement: $250-375 (2-3 hours labor plus parts)
- Rotor replacement: $312.50-437.50 (2.5-3.5 hours labor plus parts)
- Caliper replacement: $250-312.50 (2-2.5 hours labor plus parts)
- Brake fluid flush: $125 (1 hour labor plus fluid)
All services are performed by certified technicians using professional-grade diagnostic equipment. Prices may vary based on vehicle make and model.
Common Brake System Inspection Procedures
Brake Pad Inspection
Steps:
- Remove the wheels to access brake components
- Visually inspect brake pad thickness (should be at least 3-4mm)
- Check for uneven wear patterns
- Inspect for glazing or contamination
- Measure pad thickness with brake gauge
- Document findings and recommend replacement if needed
Brake Rotor Inspection
Steps:
- Clean rotor surface for proper inspection
- Check for scoring, grooves, or deep scratches
- Measure rotor thickness with micrometer
- Compare measurements to manufacturer specifications
- Check for warping using dial indicator
- Inspect for heat damage or cracking
- Recommend resurfacing or replacement based on findings
Brake Fluid Inspection
Steps:
- Check fluid level in master cylinder reservoir
- Inspect fluid color (should be clear to amber)
- Test fluid for moisture content using test strips
- Check for debris or contamination
- Verify fluid age (recommend replacement every 2-3 years)
- Document findings and recommend flush if needed
Brake Line Inspection
Steps:
- Visually inspect all brake lines for damage
- Check for leaks at fittings and connections
- Look for rust or corrosion
- Inspect flexible hoses for cracks or bulging
- Verify proper line routing and securing
- Test line pressure using brake pressure gauge
- Document any issues requiring repair
Brake Caliper Inspection
Steps:
- Check caliper mounting and sliding
- Inspect dust boots and seals for damage
- Verify piston movement and return
- Check for fluid leaks around piston
- Test caliper sliding pins for smooth operation
- Lubricate sliding components as needed
- Document any repairs needed
Master Cylinder Inspection
Steps:
- Check for external leaks
- Inspect reservoir cap and seal
- Test brake pedal feel and travel
- Verify proper fluid level
- Check mounting security
- Test brake warning light operation
- Document any issues found
Note:All inspections should be performed by qualified technicians using proper safety equipment and following manufacturer specifications. Regular brake system inspections are recommended every 12,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first.
Safety Warning: Brake system maintenance is crucial for vehicle safety. If you notice any unusual brake behavior, have your vehicle inspected immediately by a professional technician.
Understanding Brake System Inspections
Visual Brake Inspection
What it is:A thorough visual examination of all visible brake components performed by a qualified technician.
What it does:Identifies visible wear, damage, or potential issues with brake pads, rotors, calipers, brake lines, and other accessible components. This inspection helps catch problems before they become serious safety concerns.
Brake Pad Measurement
What it is:A precise measurement of the remaining brake pad material thickness.
What it does:Determines the amount of usable brake pad material left and helps predict when replacement will be necessary. This prevents metal-on-metal contact that can damage rotors and compromise braking performance.
Rotor Inspection
What it is:An assessment of brake rotor condition, including thickness measurement and surface evaluation.
What it does:Identifies warping, scoring, or uneven wear that can affect braking performance. Ensures rotors meet minimum thickness specifications for safe operation.
Hydraulic System Test
What it is:A comprehensive check of the brake hydraulic system, including master cylinder, brake lines, and fluid condition.
What it does:Verifies proper brake fluid levels, checks for leaks, and ensures the hydraulic system maintains proper pressure for effective braking.
Brake Performance Test
What it is:A dynamic test of the entire brake system under actual operating conditions.
What it does:Evaluates overall braking effectiveness, checks for pulling to one side, unusual noises, or vibrations during braking, and ensures the system meets safety standards.
Electronic Brake System Diagnostic
What it is:A computerized scan of the vehicle's brake control systems and sensors.
What it does:Identifies any electronic issues with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), traction control, and other brake-related electronic systems. Checks for error codes that might indicate system malfunctions.
Brake Fluid Analysis
What it is:A chemical analysis of the brake fluid's condition and contamination levels.
What it does:Determines if brake fluid needs replacement due to moisture contamination or degradation, which can affect braking performance and system longevity.
Emergency Brake Inspection
What it is:A check of the parking brake system's components and functionality.
What it does:Ensures the parking brake engages and holds properly, and verifies all mechanical components are in good working order.
Note:Regular brake system inspections are crucial for maintaining vehicle safety and preventing costly repairs. We recommend having your brakes inspected at least annually or whenever you notice any changes in braking performance.
Common Brake System Failure Symptoms: Warning Signs You Shouldn't Ignore
Essential Brake System Inspections
Brake Pad Inspection
Signs of Failure:
- Squealing or squeaking noises when braking
- Grinding metal sounds
- Brake warning light illumination
- Vibration in brake pedal
Service Schedule: Every 12,000 miles or annually; replace when pad thickness is less than 1/4 inch
Brake Rotor Inspection
Signs of Failure:
- Pulsating brake pedal
- Visible scoring or grooves on rotor surface
- Uneven rotor wear
- Vehicle pulling to one side during braking
Service Schedule: Inspect every 12,000 miles; typically need replacement between 30,000-70,000 miles
Brake Fluid Inspection
Signs of Failure:
- Spongy or soft brake pedal
- Dark or dirty fluid color
- Low fluid level in reservoir
- ABS warning light activation
Service Schedule: Check levels every 3 months; complete fluid flush every 2 years or 24,000 miles
Brake Line Inspection
Signs of Failure:
- Visible fluid leaks
- Soft or sinking brake pedal
- Corrosion or damage to lines
- Reduced braking performance
Service Schedule: Visual inspection every 12,000 miles or annually
Brake Caliper Inspection
Signs of Failure:
- Uneven brake pad wear
- Vehicle pulling to one side
- Brake fluid leaks around caliper
- Stuck or seized caliper movement
Service Schedule: Inspect during brake pad replacement; rebuild or replace every 75,000 miles as needed
Master Cylinder Inspection
Signs of Failure:
- Brake pedal slowly sinks to floor
- Fluid leaks under master cylinder
- Contaminated brake fluid
- Uneven brake performance
Service Schedule: Inspect during brake fluid service; typically lasts 60,000-100,000 miles
Note: These are general guidelines. Always consult your vehicle's owner's manual for specific maintenance schedules and follow manufacturer recommendations.
How It Works
- Get a quote online or set-up a time to have your vehicle looked at.
- Pick time slots that work for you, easily, online.
- We will confirm appointments and send reminders.
- Our mechanics bring everything that is needed to you.
- All you have to do is provided a safe area for the work to be performed.
What we need from you
- A safe place to work on your vehicle
- No working on the side of busy roads
- No working on unstable or steep surfaces.
- We do not perform repairs during severe weather.
- Authorization from a property owner or management.
- Repair work done in a parking lot or at your requires permission.
- We do not do repairs in areas restricted by law.
Common Questions
Service Area
Our primary service area is greater Grand Rapids and includes Comstock Park, East Grand Rapids, Grandville, Kentwood, Walker, and Wyoming
Our secondary service area is provided by our Belding location and includes: Belding, Greenville, Ionia and the sorrounding areas.
Contact us if you have any questions about where we provide services.
